Socially-distanced fun: 5 things to do around Bradenton this weekend
It can be tough to find fun in the days of COVID-19.
Fortunately, there are some local entertainment options that add in ample social distancing and other risk-reducing measures for those that feel comfortable venturing out.
Here are some ideas for keeping the doldrums at bay around Bradenton this weekend.
If you do plan on going out, remember to bring a mask. Face coverings are now required inside businesses and public buildings in Manatee County per a COVID-19 emergency resolution.
Fresh local art
ArtCenter Manatee recently unveiled two new art exhibits that are open to the public.
“In the Making” is a juried exhibit featuring media and subject matter of all forms, including paintings, jewelry and mixed media pieces.
Another exhibit, “Instructors Showcase,” highlights the work of the talented art teachers who guide the students of ArtCenter Manatee.
Details: “In the Making” on display through Oct. 9. Gallery hours: 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Mon., Fri. and Sat.; 9 a.m.-6 p.m. Tue., Wed. and Thurs. ArtCenter Manatee, 209 Ninth St. W., Bradenton. Free.
Info: artcentermanatee.org.
Craft beer bash
Good Liquid Brewing Company in Bradenton will celebrate head brewer Mike Krail’s birthday this Saturday with an all-day craft beer release. The event will feature one of the brewery’s specialties — sour beers — but other styles will also be available for sipping. Good Liquid’s kitchen serves up perfect casual beer pairings.
Masks are required and there will be ample room for social distancing inside of the taproom and outside in the beer garden, according to the brewery.
Details: 1-9 p.m. Saturday. Good Liquid Brewing Company, 4824 14th St. W., Bradenton.
Info: thegoodliquidbrewing.com.
Market at Ruskin Family Drive-In
Outdoor movie theater Ruskin Family Drive-In will host a special market this weekend featuring 35 local small businesses. Wares will include crafts, accessories, clothing, food and more. Food truck eats will be available on site.
Masks are required and social distancing will be in place.
Friday through Sunday, the drive-in is scheduled to play “Gremlins” (7:45 p.m.) and “Little Shop of Horrors” (9:30 p.m.)
Details: Market 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Saturday. No entry fee. Movies play every night of the week. Ages 9 and up: $6. Ages 5-8: $1. Cash only. $5 fee for bringing your own food. Alcohol not permitted. Ruskin Family Drive-In, 5011 U.S. 41 N., Ruskin.
Info: ruskinfamilydrivein.com.
Discount weekends at Mote Marine
Mote Aquarium is offering discount admission to Florida residents on weekends throughout September. Tickets must be purchased in advance online using the discount code “HALF.”
Safety measures in place at the aquarium include timed and limited entry for guests, socially distanced displays and hand-sanitizing stations. Visitors over the age of 5 are required to wear face coverings.
Mote’s resident creatures include aquatic reptiles, otters, sharks, colorful fish, manatees, sea turtles and more.
Details: Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium, 1600 Ken Thompson Parkway, Sarasota. Regular admission is $18 for ages 3-12; $24 for ages 13 and up. Half-off for Florida residents on weekends through September.
Info: mote.org.
Sarasota Farmers Market
The Sarasota Farmers Market has returned to downtown Sarasota in a new, socially-distanced format. Vendors selling arts and crafts, goods and services, produce, food, plants and more are spread out along several streets. Masks are required, and hand sanitizer is available throughout the market.
Patrons are encouraged to send just one shopper per household and to order items in advance from vendors if possible. A complete list of vendors and contact information is available on the Sarasota Farmers Market website.
Details: 7 a.m.-1 p.m. Saturday. Lemon Avenue and Main Street, downtown Sarasota.
Info: sarasotafarmersmarket.org.